In my line of work the small details really make a difference. Just last week, I spent hours discussing whether or not to use black linens and chair covers or white ones for the reception. As some may say, “…such a conversional topic” or others would say, “Who cares?”
Either answer is your answer, so it does not matter which way you are feeling. In my business, your opinion really matters. Not only does it matter, it is very important to me. We take pride in making a big deal out of the little things that make a BIG IMPACT. That’s my job, not only do I love it, I think those little things really do create a WOW effect to the overall vision.
So today’s topic: “To BUFFET or NOT to BUFFET that is the question?” is not only an important question but one that needs to be addressed early in the planning. There is this misconception that buffets actually save you money, but do they?
Read on to find out if you are really going to save money at the end or will it just cost you more. Do you really want people to stand in line and get up and down during an elegant event? Do you want to offer two choices, but can’t afford the duo option because it’s just too expensive. This topic doesn’t have to be conversional however, decide early and stick to your decision.
As we say here at CCP, “Once you make a decision there’s no turning back, there are too many other decisions to make in the future!” Happy Planning!
1. Venues: When deciding on having a buffet or not, discuss with the event coordinator at the venue what is more cost effective for the type of food that you want at your reception.
2. Choice of Food: Make a list of the type of food you want to have at your reception. If you want expensive seafood or steak, a buffet may not be the best choice and will burn through your budget quickly.
3. Ambience: Do you want to have a more formal event or less formal? Formal weddings often times have sit-down meals where as less formal events might have buffets.
4. Time: Buffets are more appropriate for afternoon receptions and sit-down meals are often found in the evening because guests are expecting a full meal.
5. Guest Count: Realistically, you don’t want to serve a buffet to a crowd of more than 150 guests. Everyone will be up getting their food and it could delay the FUN part of the reception, DANCING!
Diva Toolbox contributor, Tonya Shadoan is the owner of Circle City Planners. Circle City Planners is a full service planning and design firm serving brides nationally based out of the Midwest. Servicing brides for over 20 years and specializing in personal design décor and bridal style. www.circlecityplanners.com 317 770 4321.
